Valley Road

The Shaw Park – Valley Road loop from University City-Big Bend offers a diverse road cycling experience, weaving through urban parkland, suburban streets, and greenways. You'll enjoy a blend of city views and natural settings, with highlights like Shaw Park's infinity fountain and the Centennial Greenway's vistas of downtown Clayton. This moderate 40.6-mile (65.4 km) route features 1726 feet (526 metres) of elevation gain, making it a good workout that takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete.

Planning your ride is straightforward; the route begins near the University City-Big Bend MetroLink station, offering excellent public transport access. While on the trail, you'll find yourself close to various dining and shopping opportunities in downtown Clayton, along Ladue Road, Delmar Boulevard, or Olive Boulevard, perfect for a post-ride refuel.

This loop stands out for its accessibility and the varied experience it provides, combining urban exploration with green space enjoyment. It's a moderately challenging ride, suitable for cyclists looking for a good workout beyond flat trails, and it's highly rated by the Komoot community for its comprehensive cycling experience in the St. Louis area.